I don’t think God gave anyone authority to dictate sub-commandments. I don’t think there’s a First Commandment subsection A.1.b.ii that we need to follow to prove loyalty to Christ. Man-made expectations complicate Christianity. They burden the consciences of longtimers in the faith and confuse newcomers who are trying to make sense of it all and do the right thing. There are clear teachings in the Bible that dwell in the hearts of all followers of Jesus. Blest be those ties that bind us to our Lord and one another.

The Bible unclutters the path of discipleship. “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27). That is the sweeping summary of what God expects. Everyday people who are familiar with the Scriptures know what is worthy of Christ. “Or, say, one person thinks that some days should be set aside as holy and another thinks that each day is pretty much like any other. There are good reasons either way. So, each person is free to follow the convictions of conscience” (Romans 14:5 MSG). Our own consciences, informed by God’s Word, arbitrate what is permissible for each of us.

In good conscience, we can embrace others who relate to God in simpler ways or more magnificent ways than we do because there is only one answer to this question: What must I do to be saved? It’s this: Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.